The essential guide to summer sandals

Telegraph

6 hours ago

Wearing sandals in summer is no novel concept, but the seasonal shift to something open-toe can still feel daunting to the most confident dresser. Nevertheless, great sandals are the foundation of a summer wardrobe, so finding the right pair is essential for getting through the warmer months in style.
Celebrities are always a reliable source of inspiration. Zoë Kravitz favours a flip-flop-style sandal, as does model Alex Consani, who was pictured at Cannes teaming them with a tailored white jacket. Also at the film festival was Elle Fanning, who showcased the wooden platform clog trend.
With open-toe season on the horizon, we've created the ultimate guide to sandals, whatever your style and wardrobe.
The strappy sandal
A perennial; there has never been a time when strappy sandals haven't been on trend. Kate Moss lived in them in the 1990s and Sarah Jessica Parker wore countless pairs on Sex and the City. Russell & Bromley creative director, Daniel Beardsworth-Shaw particularly likes those with sculptural metallic accents. 'There's something so refined in their simplicity,' he says. 'What I love most is how these styles strike that balance between form and function – they're visually effortless but thoughtfully designed.'
The suede sandal
If you've already fallen for suede bags and jackets, you'll love the suede sandal – this timeless, expensive-looking material elevates even the simplest footwear. Beardsworth-Shaw loves a suede gladiator: 'It's about subtle transitions – choosing pieces that are considered and crafted enough to hold their own in any setting.' Pair it with a linen skirt for a boho look, or use them to elevate a pair of barrel jeans. Just remember to check the forecast for rain before stepping out – this is fairweather footwear.
The colourful mule
The classic mule has had a complete makeover this season, and it's never been more versatile or fun. Wear them to the office by day, or for dinner by night, either way, they provide comfort and sophistication in equal measure. This style is a great way to add colour to your look, says Antoine Bolze, co-founder of French footwear brand Bobbies: 'Our Kelly style reimagines the classic mule, adding a gorgeous pop of blue,' he says. 'Mules are such an iconic 1990s style, I'm so happy that they're getting the recognition they deserve this summer.'
The open-toe clog
We have Chloé to thank for the current upgrade on the style – Chemena Kamali's wooden, open-toe iterations have a Seventies feel to them, and are loved by celebrities, including Sienna Miller – less of a chore shoe and more one you want to be seen in. It's casual, but with a sense of style about it.
It hasn't always been that way: ' Wooden sole clogs were previously a style that only a few people dared to wear and mostly at home or in the garden,' says Christina Martini, co-founder and designer of Ancient Greek Sandals. 'There has been a definite shift over the past few years and this season the trend has exploded. Practical, comfortable and cool, I believe they are here to stay. I love to wear them with socks, or, when the sun comes out, I pair them with a maxi skirt or long chiffon Chloe dress.'
The day-to-night sandal
In 2025, embellishment comes in a sleek package, as demonstrated on the Tory Burch catwalk. Ring-adorned sandals can be viewed as an extension of your jewellery, and are an easy choice for effortless day-to-night looks. The Amanu Style 35 is a case in point: 'With the asymmetrical strap and 'barely there' look, this style was designed to feel minimal and elegant by day and elevated with the gold hardware for a night out,' says the label's founder, Anita Patrickson. 'Its clean lines and unique shape make it a timeless investment.'